"Think safely before you put your boat or yourself in the water. Be prepared and keep an eye on the weather and water conditions”, says Acting Deputy Commissioner ‘Atunaisa Taumoepeau at the start of the summer holidays season.

Tonga Police are advising the public to be safe when going into the sea this summer. So far this year there have been 25 sea rescue missions that resulted in 91 lives being saved.

They advise the public to take precaution when going for a swim and to actively supervise companions, and to take a break if conditions are not looking good. It is important to follow sea precautions and safety measures before embarking on any sea voyages and to make sure that they have means of communication, life jacket, emergency flares and a beacon.

Three SAR rescue boats were launched in this December last year. This year, the New Zealand Airforce and a commercial cruise liner assisted in the rescue of at least three Tongan fishermen lost at sea.

Police outlined the following safety measures:

• Look at the tides and currents
• Supervise children whenever they are near water
• Check for hidden objects before jumping or diving in
• Get in the water with children
• Monitor the weather and water
• Call for help at the first sign of trouble
• Alcohol and water activity is not a safe mix
• Check the sea worthiness of your boat and safety equipment before taking it out
• Have fun